Ralph “Ted” Thetford of Midland passed away on Jan. 29, 2013. He was born to Mary Lou and Hugh Thetford on Aug. 21, 1922, in Brookhaven.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Paul, his sister Louise, his daughter Romana Breeze and grandson Christopher Breeze.

He is survived by his wife of 66 and a half years, Fran Thetford; son-in-law, Bob Breeze of Austin, Texas; daughters, Michelle “Teddie” Hogan and husband Michael of Phoenix, Ariz., Maureen Austin Banks of Spokane, Wash., and Theresa Thetford of Midland, Texas; his sons, Gerry Thetford of Denver City, Texas, and Michael Thetford of Houston; and his sister, Nelda Kenny of Brookhaven. He also leaves behind two nieces, a nephew, 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

A rosary will be held Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, at 7 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Midland, Texas. Funeral Mass will be held Monday, Feb. 4, 2013 at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church at 11 a.m. with Monsignor James Bridges officiating. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park North. Ellis Funeral Home in Midland is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com.

The family would like to extend their greatest appreciation to each of his caregivers and everyone who supported and prayed for Ted on this journey.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Helping Hands of Midland, 1301 Brinson Lane Midland, TX 79703 or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital P.O. Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101.